Bohol is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Philippines since it is home to a wealth of natural, ecological, and historical treasures. The island, which is in the form of an oval, is covered by gorgeous mountains that gradually descend into undulating hills. Its lowlands are encircled by stunning, unspoiled beaches, several of which are known for their world-class diving opportunities. Additionally, the island is often cited as one of Asia’s most noteworthy locations for ecotourism.
Bohol is well-known not just for its natural beauty but also for the historical significance of the island. This province was colonised by the Spaniards, and they left behind characteristics that are still very much a part of the culture here even now. The area around the province is dotted with a plethora of well-known churches and watchtowers. On the territory that now makes up this province, the infamous blood agreement between a native monarch and the Spanish was written in actual human blood.
Main Tourist Attractions of Bohol, Phillipines
Dauis Church
The Dauis Church may be found roughly three kilometres away from the city of Tagbilaran. The church has an impressive front that has been preserved in an intriguing style. This style is a wonderful synthesis of structural elements from the Byzantine and Romanesque eras. The ceiling of the interior of the church is covered with a number of impressive artwork. It is often held among the Christian community that the patron saint of the church has providential abilities. In spite of the fact that the church is located just a few metres from the coast, it nevertheless manages to have a well that is stocked with fresh water for its congregation.
Punta Cruz Pirate Watchtower
This watchtower may be found around 13 kilometres away from the city of Tagbilaran. In the year 1796, Spaniards constructed the watchtower in order to keep an eye out for approaching pirates and other adversaries. A breathtaking panorama of the ocean and the surrounding areas, including Cebu, Siquijor, and Mindanao, can be seen from the tower. At the front, there is a wooden cross that has been buried in the earth. You are free to take it easy at the park that is located all around the tower.
Baclayon Church
This church can be found at Baclayon, which is around six kilometres away from the city of Tagbilaran. The Jesuits were responsible for the construction of this church in 1595, making it one of the earliest stone churches in the nation. The beauty and glory of the church have endured over the years despite its advanced age. There were a lot of interesting relics and works of art in the cathedral, and most of them have been moved to the Baclayon Museum so that visitors may see them.
Chocolate Hills
About 56 kilometres away from Tagbilaran is where you’ll find the Chocolate Hills. There are about 1,268 hills in the form of cones, all of which are around the same size and range in height from 30 to 50 metres in length. The growing grass that becomes brown over the summer months gave these hills their collective moniker. On the summits, there are places to eat, hotels, and inns to stay, and the views from these establishments are really breathtaking.
Panglao Island
The term “Panglao Island” comes from the word “mapanglao,” which means “solitary position.” Panglao Island is one of the oldest communities on the island of Bohol. The beaches of Alona and Doljo are among the most visited on the island and are a major draw for tourists. These beaches provide opportunities for hobbies such as scuba diving, paragliding, and other such pursuits. In addition, the deep seas that surround the island are home to a rich ecosystem that is teeming with a variety of marine species, such as sea snakes, starfish, and other fish that live underwater. The Hinagdanan Caves in Bingag are another attraction that’s worth checking out. Additionally, the island is well known for its trade in seashells.
Balicasag Island
This island has a total land area of around 74 acres and is located about 10 kilometres to the southwest of Panglao. In the clear, deep seas around the island, there are a variety of fish and other marine creatures for you to see. This island is covered with colourful coral, and its waters are home to a wide variety of marine life, including jack fish, barracuda, turtles, and moray fish. The water around the island is very clean, making it an ideal location for water sports such as scuba diving and snorkelling. Shops that rent diving gear to inexperienced divers may be found in close proximity to most beaches catering to the needs of tourists.
Pamilacan Island
In between Bohol and Mindanao is where you’ll find Pamilacan. The term “pilak,” which refers to a giant hooked gear, is whence the name of the island comes from. The island’s original inhabitants utilised this equipment to capture manta rays, Sangas, and sharks. The waters around the island are home to a diverse population of marine life as well as a large number of highly valuable Gloria Maris seashells. Even though it is against the law to kill dolphins, sharks, or manta rays here, hunters still come here to try their luck. Manta rays, dolphins, and sharks. The island is also responsible for organising the whale-watching excursions.
Cabilao Island
On the very northwestern tip of Bohol is where you’ll find the island of Cabilao. The presence of soft corals and crinoids on the island makes it an excellent location for divers to explore the underwater world. In addition, there is a diverse selection of tuna, jacks, and mackerels available here. In addition to that, the island is well-known for its Hammerhead sharks. In a number of the restaurants on the island, you can get some of the area’s very wonderful seafood. The months of November through May are considered to be the ideal time to visit the island.
